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Basset hound reclassified as 'category two' breed
basset hound
The reclassification will be reviewed in 12 months and in the meantime the breed's progress will continue to be monitored by the Kennel Club.
Kennel Club decision follows breed health efforts

The basset hound has been reclassified as a category two breed under the Kennel Club's Breed Watch scheme, which acts as a warning system for health concerns in individual dog breeds. Previously, basset hounds came under category three - a list of the breeds with the most serious identified conformational problems.

Taking effect on 1 January 2017, the reclassification means basset hounds who win 'best of breed' or their third challenge certificate will no longer require a veterinary health check at championship shows. The move follows a recommendation from the Kennel Club's Dog Health Group, which has been following the health of the breed.

This breed is the fourth to be removed from category three, leaving 11 breeds on the list.

Breed health co-ordinator Tina Watkins commented: "The Basset Hound Health Group is committed to working on the health of the breed, supporting research and health education. We are encouraged that these efforts have been recognised. The real work begins now and I am sure this will continue with the dedication developed within the breed to progress."

Kennel Club secretary, Caroline Kisko added: "We would like to commend the dedication, passion and commitment of those basset hound owners and exhibitors who have participated in the Basset Hound Health Scheme and other health testing.

"The basset hound clubs and their health group have worked hard to ensure their community have been involved in all health initiatives undertaken by the breed."

The reclassification will be reviewed in 12 months and in the meantime the breed's progress will continue to be monitored by the Kennel Club. The breed health co-ordinator will still be required to to submit a comprehensive annual report on the breed's health and judges must continue to submit mandatory health monitoring forms after each championship appointment.

The Kennel Club will also work with breed representatives on the development of the breed health and conservation plans.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.